Satsangs

Satsang is a compound Sanskrit word that means “keeping the company of the Self.” The Self, Awareness, is the true nature of everyone and one keeps company with it by continually meditating on it in many ways. One of the most effective methods involves discussing non-dual teachings with someone who has realized his or her identity as the Self, to get clarity with reference to Self inquiry. The satsangs posted here are the questions of many people around the world who are interested in enlightenment and find that Vedanta is their preferred means of Self knowledge. Since I am a teacher of Vedanta, a time tested means of self inquiry, I am qualified to reply to these questions.~James Swartz

ShiningWorld Reader

Sundari: Hello, Harris, it’s wonderful to hear from you again and great to hear that your trip to Trout Lake is confirmed! We are both looking forward to meeting you. ☺

With regards to your question relating to teaching, it does not seem like you have much of a question, really. It seems like self-knowledge is doing the work. To answer, I would say that teaching in a “modern” context is no different from teaching in any age. It is simply a different delivery system for the same age-old and unchanging wisdom. James, like other qualified Vedanta teachers, is a vehicle for the knowledge and wields it according to the methodology of the tradition (sampradaya). He has taught those of us who serve ShiningWorld to do the same.

As for being taught, well, by exposing the mind to self-knowledge that is unfolded by a qualified Vedanta teacher, the knowledge itself, in other words, the self, is the real teacher. If you have no questions, no need to bother. The knowledge is working and when it does, using the logic of Vedanta, you can work things out for yourself. Everything dissolves in the light of self-knowledge.

The knowledge gives one the confidence to live right, which means cleaning up your act and living according to dharma, for peace of mind. Beyond that, life is pretty normal, and from the outside, to the uninitiated, a self-realised person would seem not much different to anyone else. Chop wood, carry water. ☺

I don’t think I can contribute much of any use to you, Harris, I think you have most of it sorted out. Just keep on with your sadhana, exposing the mind to the scripture and applying the knowledge to your life. Be sure to write though if any questions come up that you need help with. We can have some great satsangs together in Trout Lake.

~ Much love to you from both of us, Sundari

Contacting Shining World

For years I have happily and diligently responded to communications on the topic of Self realization. Since the publication of my book, “How to Attain Enlightenment”— currently in its third printing —and the success of this website, the volume of emails has increased considerably. Unfortunately, owing to a busy schedule of teaching and writing, I am no longer able to answer all the emails I receive in a timely fashion. However, my wife, who is also a teacher, and several well-qualified teachers we have endorsed are available to answer emails on my behalf. I encourage you to send them your questions.
— James SwartzContact Us